Pronunciation: [nwˈɑːz] (IPA) 
Noirs is a French word that means "blacks". In English, it is often used to describe black and white detective or crime films. The spelling of "noirs" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as: /nwɑːrz/ - the initial "n" is pronounced like "nw", the "o" is pronounced like "oh", the "i" is pronounced like "ee", the "r" is pronounced like a trilled "r", and the "s" is pronounced like "z".
Noirs (noun): Noirs, also commonly known as black films or film noirs, refers to a genre of film characterized by its dark and pessimistic mood, visual style, and thematic elements. Originating primarily in the United States during the 1940s and 1950s, noirs often revolve around crime, mystery, and psychological turmoil, often portraying the darker side of human nature.
The term "noirs" is derived from the French word for black, which serves as an appropriate metaphor for the genre's emphasis on moral ambiguity and the murky nature of the human experience. Noirs are typically set in urban environments and feature themes of lust, betrayal, greed, and cynicism, creating a stark contrast to the more idealistic narratives of earlier Hollywood productions.
Visually, noirs are characterized by their dramatic lighting, stark black-and-white cinematography, and shadowy, high-contrast aesthetics. The atmospheric style often amplifies the tension and psychological depth of the narratives, complementing the complex and morally ambiguous characters.
The narrative structure of noirs often includes a hardboiled detective, a femme fatale, and a web of deceit and criminal activities. These films explore the underbelly of society, diving into the dark and corrupt aspects of human behavior. Noirs are known for their non-linear storytelling techniques, flashbacks, unreliable narrators, and unexpected plot twists.
As a genre, noirs continue to resonate with audiences today, influencing subsequent generations of filmmakers across the world. The combination of moody atmospheres, morally ambiguous characters, and intricate narratives gives noirs a timeless and enduring appeal.
The word "noirs" is the plural form of the French word "noir", which means "black" in English. Its etymology can be traced back to the Latin word "niger", meaning "shining black" or "dark". The word "noirs" is commonly used to refer to a genre of crime fiction or film characterized by its dark and pessimistic tone, often featuring morally ambiguous protagonists and gritty urban settings.
